[Arry]

Gil filled Rowan’s mug to the brim, then did the same for her brother, Tolly. ‘Good, good!’ he said on hearing they would bring out their instruments a little later and join Gil and his friends. ‘Ah! I see Buttercup coming out to take my place. She’ll see to your meals and any further drinks.’ He pointed to a small raised platform to the left of the bar. ‘We’ll play there. Come join us when you’re ready.’

He grinned at Buttercup as he handed off the tray to her, and mumbled another apology. She scowled at first, then laughed as he told her she looked even better in this new outfit.

His companions had finished their drinks and were watching as he approached. ‘Let’s set up,’ he told them. ‘Once done with their meal, the players there will come join us for a song or so.’ He noted Woody and Hanson looking up hopefully at him. ‘You two can tag along. Ferrin, loan them a set each of your rhythm sticks; they can keep the beat with you.’ He winked at the two boys. ‘Oh, and the Big Folk . . . they thought they might tell a story tonight . . . one with great, fierce dragons, and no doubt swords and treasure and such . . .’

Woody and Hanson’s faces were wreathed in smiles. With a whoop of delight they went running off toward the little stage.